Britton lived up to the hype, at least for one day, as he held the Rays to just one run on three hits and three walks. Zach struck out six Rays in his six innings of work.

Britton’s much touted sinker was working well. Right-handers were swinging and missing as the pitch disappeared off the outside corner.

Zach mixed in plenty of sliders but seemed to have more success with the changeup he introduced to Ben Zobrist in the third inning. The changeup became a weapon over his last three frames, and Britton finished his outing by striking out Kelly Shoppach on three straight pitches, all changeups.